HARRIS TWEED

The world famous Scottish handwoven cloth, Harris Tweed, is being used in all manner of new and exciting forms. Handbags and accessories in every conceivable colour and pattern can be found on Etsy and beyond.

If you are not familiar with Harris Tweed, let me give you a little round up. This is unique stuff, and produced in a cottage industry way, even today. The cloth is woven by residents of the Scottish islands of Lewis, Harris, Uist and Barra, in their homes. They use pure wool that is dyed and spun in the Outer Hebrides. The Harris Tweed Act of Parliament 1993, has ensured that all cloth certified with the famous Harris Tweed Orb trademark symbol must comply to this, in order to secure it's authenticity and quality, and to protect the brand. It is the world's only commercially produced handwoven tweed, with approximately 350 weavers currently creating this beautiful cloth. Read the full history and more here, via the Harris Tweed Authority (established 1909, although this Tweed began it's life in the 1840s).

Traditionally Harris Tweed was used for men's suits, ladies coats, and skirts and more traditional clothing. Today, talented artists are making contemporary accessories with this material. Remember, if it doesn't have the label (above), it isn't Harris Tweed. There can be only one...

Wee Hottie, Fieldy Tweed

Blue Harris Tweed Coat, Under 13 Threads

The Ultimate Bag, Katherine Emtage

Queenie Day Bag in Hunting Macleod, Catherine Aitken

Bags by Breagha

It is getting chilly out there...time to get your Tweed on!